Leavy Steps Up Training As Leinster Confirm 16-Week Lay-Off For Larmour

Robin McBryde provided injury updates on Ireland internationals Dan Leavy and Jordan Larmour when he spoke to the media on a video call from Leinster Rugby HQ on Monday.

The province’s assistant coach was previewing their Guinness PRO14 clash with Zebre this Friday night when he was asked about the status of Leavy.

The openside flanker has been out with a serious knee injury since the Heineken Champions Cup quarter-final against Ulster back in March 2019.

“Dan took took a full part in training today,” McBryde revealed. “We’re just monitoring how he goes. But he’s had a pretty bumpy journey to get back to full fitness.

“Little things have cropped up, unfortunately for Dan, but he’s kept himself in a very positive mindset throughout. And, like I say, he took a full part in the training session today.”

McBryde was also asked how Leinster will manage without Larmour for the months ahead after it was confirmed the 23-year-old flyer will be out for up to 16 weeks following a procedure on a dislocated shoulder.

“Obviously, it’s bad news. It comes with the profession, unfortunately, injuries. There’s never an ideal time to get one. But from a coaching point of view, you’ve always got to look at it as an opportunity for somebody else to step in and make a name for themselves.

“As much as we can feel for Jordan and his injury and wish him a speedy recovery, we’re obviously looking to give somebody else an opportunity and hope that somebody takes it with both hands.”

Meanwhile, there was a welcome return to full training this week for Dave Kearney (hamstring), Ciaran Frawley (facial injury) and Dan Sheehan (cheekbone) who all took to the pitch at UCD on Monday.

There was no new injury update from Leo Cullen on Ryan Baird (adductor), Max Deegan (knee), Tadhg Furlong (calf), Vakh Abdaladze (back), Conor O’Brien (hamstring) and Adam Byrne (hamstring) who all remain unavailable for selection.